Penn State Lehigh Valley professor authors new book

CENTER VALLEY, Pa. — Nichola Gutgold, professor of communication arts and sciences at Penn State Lehigh Valley, has released her latest book, "The Public Speaking Handbook for Women: Speaking Up and Speaking Well to Make the Most of Your Life." Published by Cognella Academic Publishing, this release marks one of 11 books she has authored or co-authored.

“For years, I have studied women and their career progression, from small business to politics and government,” Gutgold said. “I realized that I could combine my experience as a public speaking instructor with my research and provide a how-to guide that helps women overcome the gender-based obstacles they often face in the workplace.”

The book covers essential topics in public speaking, including voice modulation, audience analysis and organization, while taking a modern approach to helping women address the often-invisible challenges they encounter. Gutgold’s noted that her research revealed women speakers are frequently required to be more deliberate in their self-promotion to counter assumptions about their qualifications.

“I encourage women to recognize and celebrate their own power,” she shared. “It does not matter if you are short or tall, soft-spoken or able to fill an arena without a microphone — your authentic voice can be heard.”

The book also includes a chapter on a condition many speakers face: stage fright. Gutgold broke it down into two main areas: facilitative and debilitative. Most speakers experience facilitative stage fright, feeling nervous before stepping in front of an audience yet able to complete the task. Some, however, become physically unable to speak, experiencing debilitative stage fright. Gutgold said she is confident that, with practice and skill-building, anyone can become a confident and effective presenter.

“I encourage speakers to start small,” Gutgold said. “Whether you are a novice or experienced presenter, you can improve over time.”

This how-to guide provides actionable strategies for speakers at every level to feel prepared and empowered. It also encourages readers to step beyond the stage and reflect on their roles within their communities.

“Every business, civic group or volunteer organization is searching for people with effective speaking skills," Gutgold said. "Don’t be afraid to be that person.”

Gutgold previously served as associate dean of academic affairs at Penn State’s Schreyer Honors College. She has written extensively about women in politics, particularly the U.S. presidency. Gutgold has also taught internationally in China, Germany and Croatia. Still, she said her heart is in the classroom, cultivating the next generation of voices at Penn State Lehigh Valley.

“Many of my students pay their way through college. They have jobs. They care for a family member. They still find a way to be full-time students,” Gutgold said. “They also have powerful stories and meaningful experiences to share. Their voices will change the world.”

Gutgold has delivered presentations on her new book internationally in Portugal and Mexico, and she will participate in webinars and conversations throughout the Lehigh Valley, including events with the Lehigh Valley Rotary and Lehigh Carbon Community College.

About Penn State Lehigh Valley

Founded in 1912, Penn State Lehigh Valley combines more than a century of academic excellence with personalized instruction and industry-connected faculty. Students can complete one of 12 degrees on campus or begin any of Penn State’s 275+ majors through the University’s 2+2 program. With small class sizes, advanced learning technology, and a strong focus on student success, Penn State Lehigh Valley prepares students to make an impact in the Lehigh Valley and beyond.